OVERVIEW

The Lost Mine Trail is one of the most popular and scenic hikes in Big Bend National Park, and for good reason. The 4.8-mile round-trip trek offers a manageable challenge with incredible rewards—from shaded forest switchbacks to sweeping views of canyons, desert plains, and distant mountain ranges. 

Located in the Chisos Mountains, the trail showcases the park’s diverse terrain and is perfect for those looking to experience Big Bend’s beauty without committing to an all-day hike. Along the trail, you’ll enjoy breathtaking park views that stretch endlessly across the Chisos mountains and Chihuahuan Desert.

The name “Lost Mine” comes from legend—stories of a rich Spanish mine hidden somewhere in these mountains, lost to time. Whether the mine ever existed is unknown, but the trail certainly holds its own kind of treasure.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just enjoy exploring nature at a relaxed pace, the Lost Mine Trail is a must-do. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from where to park and what to pack to trail highlights and tips for making the most of the experience.

STATISTICS AND TRAIL MAP

• Location: Chisos Basin.
• Distance: 4.8 miles out-and-back.
• Elevation Gain: ~1,100 feet.
• Difficulty: Moderate.
• Duration: 2.5–3.5 hours.
• Trailhead Elevation: 5,679 feet.
• Highest Point: 6,850 feet.

PREPARATION AND PLANNING

Before you even set foot on the trail, it’s important to be well prepared. The Lost Mine Trail, while not the most strenuous in Big Bend, still climbs over 1,000 feet through mountains with little to no shade toward the top.

Be sure to pack at least two liters of water per person, as there’s no water available along the route. Bring snacks like energy bars, nuts, or fruit for a boost during the hike. Sun protection is essential—don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures, wear sturdy shoes with good grip, and bring a camera or phone to capture the stunning views.

TRAIL TIPS

• Best Season to Hike: Fall through spring. Summer temperatures can be dangerously high, even in the mountains.
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for javelinas, whitetail deer, and many species of birds. Mountain lions and bears are rare but do live in the Chisos—review safety guidelines at the visitor center.
• Cell Signal: Limited to none. Don’t rely on GPS. Download offline maps or pick up a paper trail guide.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash, stay on the trail, and avoid damaging plants or rock formations.
• Pets: Not allowed on the trail. Big Bend is not a pet-friendly park for hiking due to wildlife and safety concerns.

FINDING THE TRAILHEAD

From Panther Junction, drive about 6 miles west on the main park road and then turn south toward Chisos Basin. The trailhead is located on the main road into the Chisos Basin, just before you reach the lodge and visitor center.

The parking lot is small and fills up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early—ideally before 8:00 AM—to guarantee a spot. When we arrived the lot was full, but we found a spot in a small dirt pullout roughly a quarter mile before the trailhead, which had space for about five vehicles.

The trailhead is clearly marked with an informational sign about the area’s geology and history—take a moment to read it before starting.

STEP BY STEP GUIDE

The First Ascent – Shaded Forest

The trail begins with a steady but moderate climb through a shaded woodland of juniper, oak, and pinyon pine. This first section offers a pleasant and relatively cool introduction to the trail, especially in the morning hours. If you’re lucky, you might hear or see Mexican jays or spot a tarantula hawk wasp (don’t worry—they mostly ignore humans).

The trail winds through several gentle switchbacks, gaining elevation gradually. Along the way, you’ll notice great views to your left, looking down into Green Gulch. These early vistas only hint at the dramatic scenery to come.

About half a mile in, you’ll reach a prominent rock outcrop on your left. This is a popular early turnaround spot for those short on time or traveling with kids. Look out over the basin below—on clear mornings, the Sierra del Carmen Mountains far across the desert may be visible. 

The Ridge Climb – Gaining Elevation and Views

After the half-mile viewpoint, the trail becomes more exposed as it climbs along a ridgeline. The forest begins to thin out, replaced by cliff-hugging switchbacks with increasingly open views. Watch your footing here—the trail narrows in places, and loose gravel can be slippery.

On one side, towering rock formations rise above the trail, sculpted over millions of years by wind and erosion. On the other side, the terrain falls away into steep canyons and valleys, providing uninterrupted views of the Juniper Canyon, Casa Grande Peak, and distant desert flats.

Roughly 1.5 miles in, you’ll reach a false summit where the trail seems to level off. Many hikers think they’ve reached the end here—and honestly, it’s a great spot in its own right. There’s a wide, flat outcropping with panoramic views and plenty of space to sit down and snack.

Final Climb – The Open Rock Ridge

The last half-mile to the summit is the most exposed and dramatic. The trail gives way to a wide, open ridgeline composed of slickrock and weathered volcanic stone. There are no trees for shade, and there’s often a breeze, so be prepared for full sun and potential gusts.

But the reward? Incredible.

To the south, you can see the Rio Grande, Mexico’s Sierra del Carmen, and the hazy flats of the desert. To the east lies Pine Canyon, and to the west, the Chisos Basin unfolds beneath your feet.

The trail ends on a broad, flat summit, with plenty of room to walk around, relax, and take in the views. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you can see a nearly 360-degree panorama—arguably one of the best in the entire park.

FINAL IMPRESSIONS

Among the dozens of trails in Big Bend, Lost Mine hits the sweet spot: it’s challenging enough to feel like an accomplishment, but short enough to do in half a day. The diversity of scenery—from shaded woodlands to expansive desert vistas—makes every step engaging. And the summit? It’s a memory-maker.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to Big Bend, the Lost Mine Trail is one of those hikes you’ll talk about long after you’ve left the park. It captures the mystery, wildness, and beauty of the Chisos Mountains in a trail that invites you to return again and again.